Loyal backers sticking with Schumacher

Dec.29 (GMM) A year after his skiing accident, Michael Schumacher has retained the loyal backing of most of his personal sponsors.

It was reported earlier that, after the German mineral water company Rosbacher deal ended, Schumacher also lost the backing of the fashion brands Navyboot and Jet Set.

However, the DPA news agency insists that Rosbacher in fact remains committed to the great 45-year-old, as does the luxury Swiss watchmaker Audemars Piguet.

And Robert Peil, representing Schumacher's long-time cap sponsor Deutsche Vermogensberatung, insisted: "It is obvious to us that we stand together (with him) even in bad times."

Also still supporting Schumacher is his last F1 employer Mercedes-Benz, the doors and gates brand Hormann, and the helmet manufacturer Schuberth.

His manager Sabine Kehm insisted: "Our concept has always been cooperation based on partnership and friendship on a personal basis. This connectedness pays off today.

"Almost all of the partnerships are still there," she added.